Beware the Kamitetep: A Hidden Household Pest

Kamitetep, also known as plaster bagworms or Phereoeca uterella, are destructive household pests common in warm, humid climates.

Related to clothes moths, they are most damaging during their larval stage, when they carry a protective gray casing made of silk, dust, and lint.

These insects thrive in undisturbed, damp areas like closets, basements, garages, and under furniture. They feed on protein-rich organic

materials such as wool, silk, feathers, pet hair, paper, and dead insects—making them a serious threat to clothing,

carpets, artwork, and stored items. Though harmless to humans, their presence often signals deeper cleanliness or moisture issues.

To prevent infestations:

Vacuum regularly, especially corners and baseboards.

Remove visible cases promptly.

Reduce humidity with ventilation or dehumidifiers.

Store vulnerable fabrics in sealed containers.

Clean out cluttered areas and wash wool or silk items often.

Seal cracks and dispose of spiderwebs and insect remains to remove food sources. In case of persistent infestations,

use moth-specific insecticides or call pest control professionals.

While kamitetep don’t bite or carry disease, they can cause serious damage to your belongings and may indicate underlying issues like moisture or spider problems.